Hell Hole is a captivating rockfill dam located in Auburn, California, along the Rubicon River. Built in 1966 and standing at a towering height of 410 feet, this dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation, flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of 207,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 58,800 cubic feet per second, Hell Hole plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Hell Hole is classified as having a high hazard potential due to its structural height and volume. Despite its age, the dam undergoes regular inspections and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway to ensure safety during high water events. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, Hell Hole remains a key asset for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Hell Hole to be a fascinating example of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship. From its impressive height and storage capacity to its multi-purpose functionality and regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a critical infrastructure for managing water supply, flood protection, and renewable energy generation in California. With its strategic location along the Rubicon River and its ongoing risk management measures, Hell Hole stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate.